[quote]Some smaller charities said AER sometimes refers clients to them. Yet the American Institute of Philanthropy says AER holds enough reserves to last about 12 years at its current level of aid.

Most charity watchdogs view 1-to-3 years of reserves as prudent, with more than that considered hoarding.

Daniel Borochoff, president of the American Institute of Philanthropy, said that AER collects money "very efficiently. What the shame is, is they're not doing more with it."

When challenged, some AER administrators acknowledged being overly prudent with charitable funds in the past. Janice Gamel, a civilian who runs AER at Fort Bliss, says some military staffers "have the philosophy 'this is my money' and hold on too tight." National administrators say they've tried to loosen the purse strings. The most recent yearly figures show a tilt by AER toward increased giving.

Still, Borochoff's organization, which grades charities, gives the Army charity an "F" because of the hoarding. "It's as if the group is more concerned about its own stability and longevity than the people it purports to serve," says Borochoff. [/quote]

And breaking regs to get more contributions? Not nice at all!

[quote]Army regulations ban base passes, training holidays, relief from guard duty, award plaques and "all other incentives or rewards" for contributions to AER. But the AP uncovered evidence of many violations.

Before leaving active duty in 2006, Philip Aubart, who then went to Reserve Officer Training Corps at Dartmouth College, admits he gave to AER partly to be excused from push-ups, sit-ups and running the next day. For those who didn't contribute the minimum monthly allotment, the calisthenics became, in effect, a punishment.

"That enticed lots and lots of guys to give," he noted. He says he gave in two annual campaigns and was allowed to skip physical training the following days.

USA Cares charity founder Roger Stradley, a command sergeant major who helped run AER campaigns before retiring in 2000, says whole units were sometimes excused from a long run to reward high participation.

Others spoke of prizes like pizza parties and honorary flags given to top cooperating units. Army rules ban those too, saying awards will not be given to units or commanders "for goal accomplishment or percent of participation." [/quote]

I'll keep giving to the Navy and Air Force funds, but not the Army until they get this fixed.